American Miniature Horses are pint-sized versions of their full-sized counterparts. Despite their small stature, however, they are big on personality and can make wonderful companions for other equids or equine enthusiasts who don’t have the land to house a large horse. In this article, we’ll explain what makes the American Miniature Horse unique.
Physical Description
No bigger than a large dog, American Miniature Horses are “miniature” versions of well-balanced horses, possessing confirmation characteristics found in most equine breeds. Miniature Horses can be found in a rainbow of colors and types. They are small in size—34-38 inches as measured at the last hairs of the mane. They traditionally live 25-35 years.
History
The result of nearly 400 years of selective breeding, historians tend to support the Miniature Horse breed as a derivative of many sources. In prehistoric times small horse breeds were most likely the products of surviving harsh natural climates and limited feed. Today, knowledge of genetics has made the possibility of breeding specifically for size a reality.
The first mention of a small horse being imported into the United States was in 1888; and research shows little public awareness of true Miniatures until 1960. Popular belief is that American Miniature horses utilized the blood of English and Dutch mine horses brought into this country in the 19th century and used in some Appalachian coal mines as late as 1950. The American Miniature Horse, as documented in the pedigrees of Miniatures today, also drew upon the blood of the Shetland pony. Throughout its colorful past, the Miniature Horse breed had been bred for pets, novelty, research, monetary gain, mining work, exhibition, and royal gifts.
Primary Uses
Eager to please, the American Miniature Horse makes a gentle and affectionate companion for individuals of any age or ability. Though petite, Miniature Horses are extremely versatile and excel in a variety of disciplines including driving, halter, jumping, obstacle, and others. More recently they are also used as service animals.
Learn More
Just because Miniature Horses are smaller than other breeds doesn’t mean they require less care. If you’re interested in owning one, make sure you have the resources to house and manage it. You can learn more about the breed by talking to people who own them or by visiting the American Miniature Horse Association (AMHA) website.
